National News

Now a Hurricane, Arthur Heads for the Carolinas

(NEWSER) – Arthur strengthened to a hurricane early today, threatening to give North Carolina a glancing blow on Independence Day, prompting the governor to warn vacationers along the coast not to risk their safety by trying to salvage their picnics and barbecues. "Don't put your stupid hat on," warned Gov. Pat McCrory as the first named storm of the season prompted a hurricane warning for much of the North Carolina coast and a mandatory evacuation for visitors to the Outer Banks' Hatteras Island. In addition to the hurricane warning, tropical storm warnings are in effect for coastal areas in South Carolina and Virginia.